# prelate

/ˈpɹɛɫɪt/ (US) · /pɹˈɛlət/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prelate
Updated: 2026-10-15

## Definition

a high leader in a Christian church, such as a bishop, cardinal, or abbot. You use this word for senior officials who have authority over other priests.

For teachers: a high-ranking member of the Christian clergy with authority over other clergy, such as a bishop, archbishop, cardinal, or abbot.

## Examples

- The prelate visits our church every spring.
- The prelate meets with local priests to discuss the restoration of the old cathedral.
- The aging prelate, respected for decades of quiet diplomacy between rival dioceses, delivered a farewell address that balanced tradition with cautious calls for reform.

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